In a blaze of glory fall color appears all at once and then is quickly spent. When I choose my mums each year at the farm stand I use a strategy; choose mums not yet in bloom, tiny buds tight with a hint of the color they will display in the coming weeks. The temperature can’t be too summer-like the day I mum shop. I will walk right past them, saying “next time”.
The mums do not go into their display spots or pots at my home right away. Instead, they are sheltered in a shady spot on my porch until I get that fall feel, sky bright blue, crispness in the air and… it’s mum time! Once in their sunny spots I wait with anticipation for their lively blooms. The burst of color they provide on my plant hook, on the patio, or porch greets me as I start my day and when I return home. I get to view my pretties on my dog walk breaks and share them with my neighbors as they walk past on the way to and from their condos.
I do my best to monitor the soil moisture, turn the pots for even blooming, water as needed. As night temps reach the 30’s I cover the mums with a sheet to prolong their brief and brilliant exhibition. When the flowers are just past full splendor and looking spent I feel a little sad- not much longer will I enjoy their bright yellow, purple and orange uplift.
This year I purchased my mums in two trips, getting a couple of them too early at Aldi, not able to pass up a deal. After they looked spent I deadheaded the last legs, dried blossoms and discovered an abundance of buds! With a little patience they started a second life, appearing as though I had just brought them home. I take a break from my desk or chores every couple of days when I am in need of a little refocusing and cheering and mindfully pluck the dead flowers. It is an exercise in care and patience that makes me feel calmer and happier than the simple gesture should.